Description
Colombian Chicken and Potato Stew, also known as Ajiaco, is a comforting and flavorful traditional dish. This hearty stew combines tender chicken, nutritious potatoes, and aromatic herbs, creating a deeply satisfying meal perfect for family gatherings or a cozy dinner.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 pounds chicken (thighs or breasts)
- 4 medium potatoes (yellow or white, peeled and cubed)
- 2 cups corn (fresh or frozen)
- 1 large onion (chopped)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 cup green onion (sliced)
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- 1 cup cilantro (chopped for garnish)
- Avocado slices (for serving)
- Capers (for serving)
Instructions
- Heat the vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté for 4–5 minutes until translucent and fragrant.
- Add the chicken pieces and cook for 5–7 minutes, turning occasionally until lightly browned.
- Incorporate the cubed potatoes into the pot, stirring to combine with the chicken and onions.
- Season with cumin, thyme, bay leaf, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
- Pour in the chicken broth, ensuring all ingredients are covered. Bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer for 30–40 minutes, or until potatoes are tender.
- Stir in the corn during the last 10 minutes of cooking. Adjust seasoning as needed.
- If a thicker stew is desired, mash some potatoes against the side of the pot.
- Remove from heat and stir in chopped cilantro before serving the Colombian Chicken and Potato Stew.
Notes
- For enhanced flavor, use fresh cilantro and thyme instead of dried.
- Add diced jalapeño or hot sauce for a spicier stew.
- Experiment with sweet potatoes for a different flavor.
- Serve with crusty bread or a simple salad.
- Allow the stew to rest for a few minutes before serving to meld flavors.
- This dish is naturally gluten-free if gluten-free broth is used.
- Can be prepared in a slow cooker; brown chicken and sauté aromatics first, then cook on low for 6–8 hours.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Colombian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Sugar: N/A
- Sodium: N/A
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: N/A
- Unsaturated Fat: N/A
- Trans Fat: N/A
- Carbohydrates: N/A
- Fiber: N/A
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: N/A